A “slipped disc” is a misnomer as the disc does not actually slide out of place. The disc is a cushion between the bones of the spinal column or vertebrae, comprising a tough collagen ring and a jelly-like center called the nucleus pulposus. In contrast, spondylolisthesis involves one of the spinal bones (vertebrae) sliding forward over the bone beneath it. This condition is most prevalent in the lumbar spine (lower back), but can also occur in the cervical spine (neck), potentially pressing on the spinal cord or nerves and causing pain, weakness, and other symptoms.
A herniated disc, sometimes referred to as a “slipped disc,” happens when a spinal disc bulges or ruptures, pressing against a spinal nerve. This may result in leg pain, leg weakness, numbness, cauda equina syndrome, and/or low back pain. Distinguishing a slipped disc from ordinary back pain is crucial. Symptoms in the lower back include persistent pain, sharp pain radiating down the leg, numbness or tingling in the legs or feet, and muscle weakness.
In the case of spondylolisthesis, the slippage of spinal vertebrae relative to each other can lead to lower back pain and nerve injury. The pain felt in the leg from a herniated disc in the back arises because the lumbar disc, situated between vertebral bodies, is near the spinal cord and nerves connected to the legs.
Lumbar spondylolisthesis occurs when a lower spine vertebra shifts out of place, often due to weakness or a stress fracture. It is common among young athletes and older adults with arthritis. “Lumbar” refers to the segment of the spine containing the five lower back spinal vertebrae (L1 to L5).
HSS on Slipped Disc
OHSU on Spondylolisthesis
HSS on Herniated Disc
University of Utah Health on Slipped Disks
HSS on Spondylolisthesis
HSS on Lumbar Disc Herniations
UTHealth on Lumbar Spondylolisthesis
HSS on Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
UC San Diego Health on Spine Care
